With INTRODUCTION TO ALGORITHMS AND DATA STRUCTURES, 1st Edition, a student will master basic programming patterns and learn how to use them to solve problems. One of the cornerstones of solving problems is knowing which patterns to apply. This is where algorithms and data structures become fundamental. Familiarity with data structures and algorithms allows a programmer to tackle unthinkable problems, using only a programming language's basic control flow and loops. The book explores several common ideas -- backtracking, depth-first, breadth-first, recursion, divide and conquer and dynamic programming. Not only will this prepare students with problem-solving skills, it will also equip students with employability through technical interview tips and best practices.